Lionel Messi Reflects on His Father’s Death and Future in Football

Death of Jorge Messi

Lionel Messi recently expressed uncertainty about continuing his football career after announcing the passing of his father, Jorge Messi. Jorge died at the age of 68 on August 8. He had been under medical care due to health issues since the family’s statement on June 18 during the World Cup.

Impact on Messi’s Career

Messi shared that his emotional response to a memorable two-goal performance against Algeria was linked to experiencing challenging times. In a heartfelt message posted on social media, Messi revealed he is struggling with his father’s absence. Jorge had been instrumental in Messi’s career, serving as his agent and business manager.

“All I ever did was play football, and now I have a fair few doubts as to whether I’ll carry on doing it for much longer,” Messi confessed.

Personal and Professional Journey

Jorge Messi’s role extended beyond professional duties. He had been a critical part of Lionel’s life from the earliest days.

Before Lionel’s career took off, Jorge worked at a metal factory in Rosario and coached at the Grandoli soccer club where Lionel started playing. He accompanied Lionel to Spain for a trial with Barcelona at 13, leading to signing with the club’s La Masia academy. Lionel’s 21-year career at Barcelona included a record of 672 goals in 778 matches. He later joined Paris Saint-Germain in 2021 and then moved to Inter Miami in 2023.

Tributes and Reflections

Among those offering condolences was Cristiano Ronaldo, who expressed support for Messi via Instagram.

Messi’s full statement showed deep sorrow and cherished memories:

“Dad, I still can’t believe you’re gone. It’s so hard for me to imagine that I won’t see you ever again…You left us far too soon.”

“You kept asking me to play in the last World Cup, and it was just days before it started that you took a turn for the worse…I couldn’t stop thinking about getting as far as possible, to give you time to watch a match.”

Messi noted the unending support Jorge provided throughout his life and contemplated the future without him.

He added, “I don’t know what I’m going to do without you… All I ever did was play football. Why didn’t you hang on just that little bit longer so we could finish it together?”

The statement concluded with promises to uphold Jorge’s values while raising his own children. Lionel appreciated his father’s guidance in his life and committed to instilling the same principles in his children.